title: Effects of soluble dietary fiber on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and coronary heart disease risk.
abstract: Strong epidemiologic and experimental data suggest that increasing dietary fiber may help to lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and decrease the risk of coronary heart disease. Recent studies have highlighted the role of dietary fiber, particularly water-soluble varieties, in decreasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Several types of soluble fiber, including psyllium, beta-glucan, pectin, and guar gum, have been shown to decrease LDL-C in well-controlled intervention studies, whereas the soluble fiber content of legumes and vegetables has also been shown to decrease LDL-C. Current investigations continue to explore this area in depth and examine potential synergies between dietary fiber and other phytochemicals that may lower cholesterol. These studies, along with recent analyses of ongoing prospective cohort studies, have provided new insights into the probable protective role of dietary fiber in the development of coronary heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases.
authors.affiliation: Department of Epidemiology, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, 1440 Canal Street, SL-18, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA. lbazzano@tulane.edu
authors.forename: Lydia A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Bazzano
mesh_terms: D008078:Cholesterol, LDL / Q000097:blood*; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004043:Dietary Fiber / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D008078:Cholesterol, LDL; D004043:Dietary Fiber